Ethiopia strikes balancing act between regional powers

Ethiopia has become a focal point of diplomatic attention following a rapid succession of visits by high-level delegations from Turkey, Israel, and Saudi Arabia. These visits signal a battle for influence over Addis Ababa by the different foreign powers. Israeli President Isaac Herzog was the latest arrival in the country. While neither country provided details of the meeting, analysts believe that Somaliland would have been a vital part of the agenda. Israel considers Somaliland important to its national security, given its strategic location. Ethiopia, meanwhile, also has vested interests in what becomes of the breakaway region. Last year, Addis Ababa signed a deal with Hargeisa that would have allowed Ethiopia access to the sea, in exchange for future recognition of its independence. Somalia resisted the deal, with the situation almost devolving to armed conflict. However, Ethiopia ultimately did not follow through with the agreement after Turkey intervened. Given this context and Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, it is plausible that Herzog sought to convince Ethiopia to follow in its footsteps and also recognize Somaliland. Meanwhile, Turkey and Saudi Arabia support Somalia and oppose Israel’s recognition of Hargeisa.

Al Jazeera